Can laser eye surgery fix astigmatism?

If you’ve been diagnosed with astigmatism and are tired of relying on glasses or contact lenses, you may be wondering whether laser vision correction could be an option for you. One of the most common questions patients ask is: Can laser eye surgery fix astigmatism?

The short answer is that modern laser vision correction procedures can often be used for treating astigmatism in suitable patients. However, the most appropriate treatment depends on several factors, including the degree of astigmatism, your overall eye health, and the results of a comprehensive eye exam.

1Bamashmus, M.A. et al. (2015) Functional outcome and patient satisfaction after laser in situ Keratomileusis for correction of myopia and myopic astigmatism, Middle East African journal of ophthalmology. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4302464/ (Accessed: 13 December 2023).

What Is Astigmatism?

Astigmatism is a common refractive error that occurs when the cornea or lens inside the eye has an irregular shape.

Instead of being perfectly round, the cornea may be shaped more like a rugby ball. This uneven curvature affects how light enters the eye and focuses on the retina, which can lead to blurred vision or distorted vision.

People with astigmatism may experience:

  • Blurred or distorted vision
  • Difficulty seeing distant objects
  • Eyestrain
  • Headaches
  • Problems with night vision

Astigmatism often occurs alongside short-sightedness or long-sightedness and can affect people of all ages.

How Does Laser Eye Surgery Treat Astigmatism

Modern eye surgery for astigmatism works by reshaping the cornea so that light can focus more accurately on the retina.

By altering the curvature of the cornea, laser treatment aims to reduce refractive errors and improve visual clarity.

Several types of laser eye surgery may be used to treat astigmatism, depending on your individual circumstances and suitability.

Can laser eye surgery fix astigmatism?

The answer is yes. Laser eye surgery can effectively correct astigmatism.

2Bamashmus, M.A. et al. (2015) Functional outcome and patient satisfaction after laser in situ Keratomileusis for correction of myopia and myopic astigmatism, Middle East African journal of ophthalmology. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4302464/ (Accessed: 13 December 2023).

LASIK for astigmatism

LASIK eye surgery is one of the most commonly performed laser vision correction procedures worldwide.

During LASIK surgery, a surgeon creates a thin flap within a layer of the cornea. This flap is gently lifted, allowing an excimer laser to reshape the underlying corneal tissue according to your prescription.

Once the treatment is complete, the flap is repositioned to begin the natural healing process.

Many patients are interested in LASIK because visual recovery is often relatively quick. However, individual outcomes vary, and suitability must always be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

What Technology Is Used During LASIK?

Modern LASIK procedures often combine two advanced laser technologies.

A femtosecond laser is commonly used to create the corneal flap, while an excimer laser performs the precise corneal reshaping required to correct the refractive error.

These technologies allow surgeons to customise treatment based on detailed measurements of your eyes.

PRK: An Alternative to LASIK

For some patients, Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) may be recommended.

Photorefractive Keratectomy PRK is another established form of laser vision correction. Unlike LASIK, PRK does not involve creating a flap.

Instead, the outer layer of the cornea is gently removed before the laser treatment is performed. The surface then regenerates naturally during the healing process.

PRK may be considered for patients with thin corneas, certain occupations, or lifestyles where flap-related considerations are important.

When discussing LASIK PRK options, your surgeon will explain the advantages and limitations of each procedure based on your individual eye measurements and visual goals.

SMILE for astigmatism

SMILE is the latest advancement in laser eye surgery and involves creating a small, lens-shaped piece of tissue within the cornea, which is then removed through a tiny incision. SMILE is less invasive than LASIK and PRK

3Bamashmus, M.A. et al. (2015) Functional outcome and patient satisfaction after laser in situ Keratomileusis for correction of myopia and myopic astigmatism, Middle East African journal of ophthalmology. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4302464/ (Accessed: 13 December 2023). and is becoming a popular choice for correcting myopia and astigmatism.

Can Everyone With Astigmatism Have Laser Eye Surgery?

Not necessarily.

While many patients with astigmatism may be suitable candidates, laser vision correction is not appropriate for everyone.

Several factors influence eligibility, including:

  • The degree of astigmatism
  • Corneal thickness
  • Prescription stability
  • Overall eye health
  • Presence of other eye conditions

A comprehensive consultation and detailed eye examination are essential before any treatment recommendation can be made.

Patients with very high prescriptions, significant corneal irregularities, or certain medical conditions may require alternative treatment options.

What About Thin Corneas?

Patients with thin corneas are often concerned about whether they can undergo laser vision correction.

While thin corneas may affect suitability for LASIK, other procedures such as PRK may still be considered in appropriate cases.

Your surgeon will carefully assess corneal thickness and structure before recommending any treatment.

Recovery and the Healing Process

Recovery times vary depending on the procedure performed.

Following LASIK, many patients notice visual improvements within the first few days. PRK recovery is generally slower because the surface layer of the cornea needs additional time to regenerate.

During the healing process, patients are typically prescribed lubricating eye drops and other medications to support recovery and reduce the risk of infection.

It is important to attend all follow-up appointments and follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully.

Dry Eyes After Laser Eye Surgery

One of the more commonly discussed temporary side effects following laser vision correction is dry eyes.

Symptoms may include irritation, fluctuating vision, or a gritty sensation during recovery.

For most patients, these symptoms improve over time as healing progresses. Your surgeon may recommend lubricating eye drops to help manage discomfort during this period.

Patients who already have dry eye symptoms before surgery will be assessed carefully during their consultation.

Lifestyle Considerations

Your lifestyle can also influence which procedure may be most suitable.

For example, patients involved in contact sports may discuss alternatives to LASIK because of considerations relating to the corneal flap. Procedures such as PRK or other forms of laser vision correction may sometimes be considered depending on individual circumstances.

Your surgeon will take into account your occupation, hobbies, sporting activities, and visual goals when discussing treatment options.

What Results Can Patients Expect?

The aim of laser vision correction is to reduce refractive errors and improve visual clarity.

Many patients experience clearer vision following treatment and a reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses. However, outcomes vary between individuals, and no procedure can guarantee a specific visual result.

It’s important to have realistic expectations and understand both the potential benefits and limitations of treatment.

Your surgeon will explain the likely outcomes based on your prescription, eye measurements, and overall eye health.

Is Laser Eye Surgery Right for You?

If you’re considering laser vision correction for astigmatism, the first step is a comprehensive assessment with an experienced eye surgeon.

This evaluation will include a detailed eye examination, corneal measurements, and a discussion about your visual needs and lifestyle. Based on these findings, your surgeon can determine whether LASIK, PRK, or another treatment option may be appropriate.

Final Thoughts

Modern laser vision correction can be an effective option for many people with astigmatism. Procedures such as LASIK eye surgery and Photorefractive Keratectomy PRK work by reshaping the cornea to improve how light focuses within the eye.

However, suitability varies from person to person. Factors such as corneal thickness, prescription strength, overall eye health, and lifestyle all play a role in determining the most appropriate treatment approach.

4Saragoussi JJ, et al. Quality of life after LASIK: part II. Quality of life and satisfaction of a population of patients treated with LASIK [in French]. J Fr Ophtalmol. 2011;34:294–302.

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Hi, I’m Dr Aanchal Gupta, your laser and cataract surgeon in Adelaide

Over the past 10 years, I’ve had the joy of helping thousands of patients of all ages gain clear vision and freedom from glasses and contact lenses.

Laser eye surgery is a skill. Performing vision correction at a world-class standard hinges upon the expertise of your surgeon and their access to state-of-the-art tools.

I understand that getting eye surgery is a serious decision. Your eyes are unique and you should demand a custom solution tailored to your needs, lifestyle and goals. That’s why we offer a free appointment so we can meet and I can take the time to answer your questions and talk through any concerns you have.

I am passionate about helping patients transform their lives. I look forward to spending time with you at our gorgeous eye clinic in the heart of Adelaide to see whether you could gain exceptional vision without the need for glasses or contacts.

Dr Aanchal Gupta

MBBS, M.Med. (Ophth. Sci.), Grad. Dip. (Refract. Surg.), FRANZCO
Expert Laser Eye and Cataract Surgeon